BGT 2024-25: Will Mohammed Shami finally make it to Australia? The latest update will leave you surprised!
Xtra Time Web Desk: Indian pacer Mohammed Shami has less than a week to prove his fitness and secure a spot in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad, according to a report. Shami, who recently returned to competitive cricket after a long injury layoff, is under close scrutiny from the BCCI's medical team.
Following a solid performance for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, Shami's next evaluation hinges on his outings in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT). The BCCI's medical team, led by head of sports science Nitin Patel and NCA trainer Nishant Bordoloi, is also emphasizing weight loss and endurance as key fitness goals for the pacer.
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A source told The Times of India, "The medical team feels Shami will lose weight as he continues playing matches, which will build his endurance. While SMAT isn't the perfect benchmark for Test cricket readiness, it provides a makeshift parameter."
Shami’s SMAT campaign began on November 23, leaving him 10 days to meet the selectors’ criteria. The report indicates that the selectors remain cautious about rushing him back, given the ICC Champions Trophy in February.
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“If Shami clears the SMAT challenge, he might train with Team India. However, playing him immediately in the Test series is a different decision altogether," the source added. Shami may be available for the third Test, starting December 14, if his recovery progresses smoothly.
Meanwhile, India started the series on a high note with a 295-run win in Perth. Stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and debutant Harshit Rana impressed with strong bowling performances in Shami’s absence.
